A group of international students from UNIST engaged in community service activities in the Duseo-myeon area of Ulju County, supporting local agricultural efforts.
This volunteer initiative was organized by UNIST International Affairs Team to offer international students an immersive experience of Korean rural culture and foster interaction with the local community. The program was jointly planned with the Ulju County Branch of the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation (NACF or NongHyup).
Nine international students, seeking meaningful activities during their vacation, along with two staff members from UNIST International Affiars Team, voluntarily participated in the event. Beyond mere volunteering, students also learned about Korea’s rice industry collaboration strategies through hands-on activities with NongHyup staffs.
Participants contributed to the processing of rice seedlings at a grain processing facility, assisting with the cleaning and preparation of seed trays after transplanting. They helped remove soil and debris, organizing over 1,000 seed trays. Despite the hot weather, the students demonstrated dedication and teamwork, working diligently under the sun.
Ogenrwot Daniel, an international student from Uganda enrolled in the School of New UNISTars, expressed his enthusiasm, saying “Participating in this rural volunteer activity allowed me to contribute to the local community, which was a truly rewarding experience. I especially enjoyed applying the theories I learned at UNIST to real-world situations by collaborating with my Indian friend on seed tray packaging strategies.” He added, “I am committed to continuing volunteer activities that can benefit Ulsan and Korea.”
Participants will receive official volunteer hours credited through NongHyup. The UNIST International Affairs Team is also planning follow-up activities to ensure ongoing engagement with the local community, including participation in the busy farming season in September.
Dean Young-Bin Park of Public Relations and International Affairs at UNIST stated, “This volunteer activity provided international students with a meaningful opportunity to connect warmly with the local community and to adapt naturally to life in Korea.” He further added, “We will continue to support diverse programs that foster a sense of pride among our international students as UNISTARs, enabling them to focus on their studies and research with confidence.”
